Barcelona has made a decision that could shape the club's immediate future. Jan Virgili, one of the most promising gems from La Masia, will join the first team for preseason. Hansi Flick has made this decision, as he wants to see him in action and check firsthand if he is ready to make the definitive leap.
Virgili is a pure winger, fast, unpredictable, and with a goal-scoring instinct that doesn't go unnoticed. His performance in the youth categories has been brilliant, and not only that: he has also stood out in key matches for Barça Atlètic. The club sees in him a different profile, more vertical than Nico Williams, and with an immense margin for progression.
In addition, there is a factor that excites the board: his arrival to the first team wouldn't cost a single euro. In times of economic crisis and with Fair Play limits tightening, betting on homegrown talent is a necessity. Jan Virgili represents that perfect solution: quality, youth, and zero cost.
Virgili is the bet
The 18-year-old footballer has caught Hansi Flick's attention since he arrived on the bench. The German coach has received very positive reports from the development staff. He is considered a special player, with that spark only unique wingers have. That's why he has asked to closely follow his progress this summer.
The coaching staff doesn't rule out that Virgili could stay in the squad if he shows his level in the summer friendlies. His profile fits what Flick is looking for: wide wingers, fast, and with the ability to beat their man one-on-one. In that sense, the young man from Sabadell has all the ingredients to convince.
Flick wants to test him
The club's current context also favors him, Barça can't make major outlays on signings. The Nico Williams operation, although highly desired, is complicated by the high cost of his release clause and his salary. That's why names like Virgili's are gaining strength in Camp Nou offices.
The sporting management are delighted with the academy player's emergence, they believe he could be one of the summer's great surprises. His speed on the wing, his boldness with the ball, and his ability to assist make him a top-level wildcard. His style has even been compared to that of a young Ansu Fati.
The idea is clear: give him minutes in preseason matches and analyze his performance against top-level opponents. If he responds well, he will have a real chance to stay. If not, he could be part of Barça Atlètic and have a dynamic registration with the first team. Jan Virgili is facing the biggest challenge of his career, everything depends on him, but the club trust his talent, Hansi Flick already has his eye on him.